Xisheng Chen

Xisheng Chen’s artistic journey is a testament to the power of language and the written word. As a Chinese-American translator, linguist, and educator, Chen has spent decades honing his craft, creating a body of work that bridges cultures and languages. His love for language began early, and his first significant work—a translation from English to Chinese—was published when he was just 22 years old. "It was published in Readers’ Digest (in Chinese) in 1986, one of the most popular media in China," Chen recalls. This early success set the stage for a long and distinguished career in translation.

The Influence of Education

Chen’s formal education in British and American languages and literature laid a solid foundation for his work. "My major was British and American languages and literature during my undergraduate and postgraduate study from 1981 to 1987 at Fudan University in Shanghai, China," he explains. This rigorous academic training equipped Chen with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of translation, where each project is seen as a new exploration. "No two pieces, either in the original language or in the target language, are identical," Chen notes. This belief has guided his approach to translation, where he combines knowledge and tools to strive for perfection in each work.

In addition to his academic background, Chen pursued further education in the United States, earning a Healthcare Interpreter’s Certificate from the City College of San Francisco in 1999. This additional qualification expanded his expertise, allowing him to work in diverse fields and contribute to the growing demand for skilled translators in the healthcare industry.

Calligraphy as a Creative Outlet

Beyond his work in translation, Chen has also been practicing Chinese calligraphy for more than a decade. "I have been practicing and creating Chinese calligraphy for more than ten years," he shares. This traditional art form has become a vital part of his creative life, offering a different yet complementary avenue for expression. Calligraphy, like translation, requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of language, making it a natural extension of Chen’s linguistic talents.

Themes and Exploration

For Chen, each piece of translation work represents a new exploration. "I believe each piece of my translation is a new exploration," he says. The uniqueness of each project keeps his work dynamic and engaging, as he continually adapts his approach to meet the specific challenges of each text. This mindset reflects his broader view of creativity, where every project is an opportunity to learn and grow.

When asked about his aspirations, Chen expresses a desire to take up a new creative hobby—writing lyrics—if he ever had unlimited time. This interest in lyrics writing speaks to his deep appreciation for the musicality and rhythm of language, qualities that also underpin his work in both translation and calligraphy.

A Legacy of Language

Chen’s career has spanned multiple decades and continents, with his work published in various fields across newspapers and journals in China and abroad. His diverse roles, from translator for Shanghai TV Station’s Evening English News to adjunct professor at Trine University in Indiana, showcase a lifetime dedicated to the pursuit of linguistic excellence. "As a translator for over three decades, I have published many translations in various fields," he notes, reflecting on his extensive contributions to the field.

Looking Forward

Xisheng Chen’s journey is far from over. With a deep reservoir of knowledge and experience, he continues to explore new projects and possibilities within the realms of language and art. Whether through the meticulous craft of translation or the flowing strokes of Chinese calligraphy, Chen’s work remains a powerful bridge between cultures, connecting people through the universal medium of the written word.

As he looks to the future, Chen remains committed to his craft, always seeking new ways to express the beauty and complexity of language. His work is a reminder of the enduring power of words, and the vital role that translators play in bringing the world closer together